SC Lawmakers Weigh Age Restrictions and Labeling Rules for Hemp & THC Products

SC Lawmakers Weigh Age Restrictions and Labeling Rules for Hemp & THC Products

South Carolina has reached a crucial turning point in the regulation of hemp-derived THC and cannabinoid products. For years, the state has operated with limited oversight on consumable hemp products such as edibles, drinks, gummies, and vape oils. However, as these products gained popularity, concerns about safety, youth access, and inconsistent labeling also grew. As lawmakers begin debating new rules for 2025, the prevailing conversation is about stricter age limits, packaging requirements, and retail standards.

By considering various factors, we can shape the future of South Carolina hemp regulation in 2025. Additionally, the decisions made today may benefit other states.

A Strong Push for Updated Oversight

As per current South Carolina law, various hemp products can be sold without any strict age restrictions, standardized testing, or detailed consumer information. This means that you may find THC-enhanced or psychoactive hemp products on the shelves of stores alongside the everyday items, often without proper warnings or instructions on potency.

This situation has alarmed parents, health officials, and legislators who say more oversight is essential. Law enforcement has also seen challenges in differentiating between hemp products and illegal marijuana-based products, thus making it difficult to enforce laws.

In response, lawmakers have proposed updates intended to make the rapidly growing marketplace for hemp-derived THC products more organized, consistent, and clear. For a deeper explanation of how South Carolina reached this moment, see this internal article:

South Carolina’s Hemp Regulation Overhaul.

Key Changes Proposed for 2025

The proposed legislation lays out several major changes that would reshape how hemp-derived consumables can be sold and marketed in the state. The major points include.

1. A Minimum Age Requirement

One of the biggest changes would be that the legal age of purchase and possession of consumable hemp products would be 21. Cannabis will be more regulated like alcohol and tobacco so that teens won’t have easy access to it. Every sale would have age verification requirements for retailers, so there is a clear line of youth protection. 

2. Strict Labeling and Packaging Rules

To prevent confusion and unintentional consumption, lawmakers want clear packaging with accurate labels. This includes.

• Listing total cannabinoid content.

• Adding warning labels.

• Don't use packaging that looks like candy, snacks, or other kid-friendly designs. 

The regulations focus on hemp products, especially edibles and gummies, that have a fun look that might attract kids.

3. Potency Limits and Serving Sizes

The measure includes specific limits on how much THC or other cannabinoids can be included in each serving and package. Such measures will stop the market entry of products with excessive strength. Also, they will ensure a predictable and consistent experience for consumers.

4. Retailer Licensing and Store Requirements

Retailers selling consumable hemp products will require new licenses and adhere to new requirements for storage and sale. For example:

• Products must be kept behind counters.

• Age-verification procedures must be used.

• Stores cannot work within a certain distance of schools or daycare centers.

These measures aim to lower youth exposure and direct hemp sales through those businesses that can guarantee compliance. 

5. Marketing and Advertising Controls

To avoid marketing towards children, businesses will face restrictions on how hemp-derived products can be advertised. Children will not be targeted as part of the promotion. Advertisements should not be misleading. To understand how such rules affect businesses in the Carolinas, check this article: New Hemp Law Sparks Job Loss Concerns: Impact on SC & NC Businesses?

Why These Regulations Are Being Considered Now

Many things are urging regulation updates.

Growing Availability of Intoxicating Hemp Derivatives

Delta 8 THC, delta 10 THC, and other hemp-derived products have gained in popularity. Often, these offer psychoactive effects similar to marijuana. These products have been readily available, including at gas stations and convenience stores, raising public health concerns due to lack of regulation.

Lack of Age Limits Under Current Law

Parents and local leaders are worried that kids can get THC drinks, gummies, or vape products too easily. Lawmakers understand that age restrictions on cannabis are necessary. 

Need for Consumer Transparency

Many products don’t have accurate lab testing or dosage information which confuses a customer about potency or content. Clear labels and standardized tests would protect consumers from unintentional overconsumption.

Alignment with National Trends

Hemp market across the states have outgrown early legislation that was mainly for agricultural hemp. South Carolina has joined states attempting to more actively regulate hemp-derived cannabinoids.

Impact on Consumers, Retailers, and the Hemp Industry

If the regulations are finalized, they will have a huge effect on the hemp supply chain. 

• For Consumers

Anyone over 21 would have safer products that are clearly labeled with the potency of the product. While some products may become more difficult to find or a little more expensive because of testing and compliance, consumer safety would be enhanced overall.

• For Retailers

New responsibilities would fall on businesses, such as age verification, storage rules, and licensing. Retailers may need training, new systems, and updated labeling, which may take investment. However, clear rules may mean legitimate businesses avoid fines and may compete on equal terms.

• For the Hemp Industry

Manufacturers will have to abide by strict packaging and testing standards. While not all producers may be able to comply with new rules, this can be a way for the industry to be legitimized by taking out unsafe products or badly labeled products.

Support and Opposition

The proposals are receiving mixed reactions, like other cannabis-related legislation.

Supporters argue:

• Youth safety must be prioritized.

• Clear rules protect responsible businesses.

• Labeling and testing standards prevent health risks.

• Potency limits reduce the potential for accidental overuse.

Opponents say: 

• Overregulation may push consumers to unregulated markets.

• Smaller businesses may struggle with compliance costs.

• Some rules may cause difficulties in distinguishing hemp from illegal marijuana enforcement.

While lawmakers continue to hold discussions, they are trying to balance safety with growth and access.

The Road Ahead for South Carolina Hemp Regulation 2025

The bill is being rolled on, and legislators are reviewing the final modifications, such as the limits on potency, selling marijuana, and music regulations. If the regulations are approved, they can become fully effective in 2026, so that businesses can adapt.

As the public has become more concerned and the hemp market has grown, the state is seeking to revise its rules in a more modern, balanced way between safety, consumer liberty, and industry development. The direction chosen under South Carolina hemp regulation 2025 could become a model for other states navigating similar challenges. For more updates and insights, visit CBHD News.